The limited-edition Renault Clio RS Monaco GP on sale from today is a further example of the French car-maker’s penchant for releasing special-run versions of its hot hatch heroes.

Trading on the glamour of the world’s most famous Formula One Grand Prix, in which Renault plays a major part with its engines, the Monaco GP Clio becomes a new, albeit temporary, flagship for the popular pocket rocket range.

Renault Australia will import 55 units of the Monaco GP Clio, each priced from $38,290 plus on-roads, or $1000 more than the regular-range headliner, the $37,290 RS 200 Cup Trophy.

Like that car, the Monaco GP version sits on 18-inch Radicale wheels (black on this car) and Renault’s hardcore Cup chassis specification, and like all RS Clios get a 147kW 1.6-litre turbo engine matched to a six-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox only.

What differentiates this special version is its styling package inside and out.

For the extra money you get unique Pearl White paint with a contrasted black roof, as well as gloss-black front blades, rear diffuser, side protective strips, door handles, door mirrors, rear spoiler and hatchback strip. There’s also a commemorative badge.

Inside the cabin is a palette of black and grey on the steering wheel, gear-shifter, speaker surrounds, seat belts and stitching on the seats. There are also numbered door sills and standard Renault Sport mats with a grey border.

Commenting on the launch, Renault Australia managing director said: “Renault has an enviable history in all facets of motorsport and it is fantastic to be able to extol this with the launch of the Clio R.S. Monaco GP.

“We previously launched a Megane R.S. Monaco GP limited edition in 2011 and it sold like hot cakes so I’m confident that the Clio R.S. Monaco GP will be in high demand once it hits the showroom floors.”